probably of foreign origin; some kind of nuttree, perhaps the almond; hazel.
Transliteration:lûwz
Pronunciation:looz
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma לוּז (lûwz), designated by Strong's H3869, refers to a specific type of tree, likely a nut-bearing variety. Its base definition suggests "some kind of nuttree, perhaps the almond; hazel." The etymology indicates it is "probably of foreign origin," which might account for its very limited appearance in the biblical text. The semantic range is therefore quite narrow, pointing directly to a botanical specimen. While "hazel" is a common translation, "almond" is also proposed, reflecting the challenge in precisely identifying ancient flora. The term functions as a concrete noun, denoting a physical plant within the natural world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word לוּז (lûwz) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, found in [[Genesis 30:37]]. This singular occurrence is within the narrative of Jacob's ingenious, and divinely blessed, breeding practices while in Laban's service. The verse states: "And Jacob took him rods of green poplar, and of the hazel (לוּז), and chestnut tree; and pilled white strakes in them, and made the white appear which was in the rods." In this context, Jacob uses branches from these specific trees, stripping their bark in patterns, and placing them before the flocks during mating. The purpose was to influence the coloration of the offspring, resulting in speckled, spotted, and ringstreaked animals, which, by agreement with Laban, would become Jacob's. The inclusion of the לוּז (lûwz) alongside poplar and chestnut suggests it was a tree known for its distinct bark or perhaps its perceived properties in influencing animal characteristics, or simply one readily available in the region. Its role here is entirely pragmatic, as an instrument in a pastoral strategy.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its unique occurrence as a specific tree, לוּז (lûwz) is primarily related to other botanical terms found in the Bible, especially those mentioned alongside it in [[Genesis 30:37]], such as the poplar (לִבְנֶה, `{{H3839}}`) and the chestnut (עַרְמוֹן, `{{H6196}}`). More broadly, it connects to the biblical understanding of flora and the natural world as part of God's creation. Conceptually, its use in Jacob's narrative links it to themes of animal husbandry, agricultural practices, and the means by which Jacob accumulated wealth and progeny under divine favor. It is important to distinguish this botanical term `{{H3869}}` from the place name לוּז (Luz, `{{H3866}}`), which refers to the city later renamed Bethel ([[Genesis 28:19]]), despite sharing the same consonantal root. The Strong's definition for `{{H3869}}` explicitly limits its meaning to the tree.
### Theological Significance
The direct theological significance of the word לוּז (lûwz) itself is limited due to its singular, specific, and pragmatic use. It is not a word around which major theological doctrines are built. However, its presence in [[Genesis 30:37]] contributes to the broader theological themes of the Jacob narrative:
1. **Divine Providence:** While Jacob employs a folk remedy or a clever naturalistic method, the biblical narrative consistently frames Jacob's prosperity as a result of God's blessing and faithfulness to His covenant promises ([[Genesis 30:43]], [[Genesis 31:7-12]]). The לוּז (lûwz) branch, therefore, becomes a humble instrument within God's overarching plan to multiply Jacob's flocks and establish his household.
2. **Creation's Utility:** The mention of specific trees demonstrates the Bible's grounding in the material world and God's creation. The natural world, including its trees and their properties, is presented as something to be observed and utilized by humanity, often in service of God's purposes.
3. **Realism of Narrative:** The inclusion of such specific, seemingly minor details like the "hazel" tree lends an air of realism and authenticity to the biblical account, illustrating the concrete circumstances of the patriarchs' lives.
### Summary
The Hebrew word לוּז (lûwz, `{{H3869}}`) uniquely identifies a specific type of nut-bearing tree, likely a hazel or almond, and appears only once in the biblical text in [[Genesis 30:37]]. In this context, it functions as a material object—a branch—used by Jacob in his animal breeding strategy. While its direct theological weight is minimal, its inclusion underscores the biblical narrative's realism and serves as a subtle testament to God's detailed providence, working through both human ingenuity and the elements of His creation to fulfill His covenant promises to Jacob. It is a word that grounds the grand narrative of salvation history in the tangible, everyday realities of ancient life.
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